In fact, studies have shown the benefit of using comic strips and comic books in education: They engage even reluctant readers and introduce them to the adventures that await inside a book. That’s why we’re particularly delighted to have Snoopy Cowabunga chosen as part of Andrews McMeel’s “Comics for Kids” program, with an online companion guide for teachers and parents suggesting ways to use the book as a teaching tool – in a natural and fun way!
I know personally the benefit of using comic strips as a tool for literacy – my brother, now close to 80, learned to read thanks to comic books!
Sparky himself was devoted to books. He read books on a wide variety of subjects, and drew many facts from them that went into the comic strips – thus sharing his interests with his readers.
And where better to find those books than in school and public libraries, which are such a vibrant part of our communities. Did you know there are more libraries than McDonald’s restaurants in the United States – more than 16,000 branches! And even though so many libraries have had to reduce their operating hours and staff, attendance at children’s programs and the circulation of children’s materials has increased in recent years. I find that tremendously encouraging.
I am a huge fan of libraries. I always took my children to our local library’s story hour. One of my first philanthropic efforts was to create a fund in my father’s name at his local library for a storytelling program for teens aged 13 to 15. And Sparky and I were supporters of the library at our local college, Sonoma State University.
So nothing pleases me more than to have Snoopy be our liaison with the American Library Association as he inspires children to come to their local or school libraries and discover the world of laughter and adventure that awaits them there!
As Sally said in one of my favorite of Sparky’s comic strips, “Happiness is having your own library card!”
I love Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts Gang!
I have always loved Snoopy and his gang. I’m happy to see them representing the American Library Association. 🙂 Such a wonderful combination!!
I love this article, especially as a homeschool mom knowing how important it is to read, no matter if it is a book or a comic strip!
It’s been awhile since I have even seen any snoopy cartoons on TV. We love the Peanuts Gang.
I love watching Snoopy Halloween special
My Mom is a Snoopyaholic!
I have always loved reading and I love encouraging my kids to read things that I grew up reading.
With little people in our house reading is the 1# subject–my kids are homeschooled–and I don’t care what they read(with in limits) as long as they read daily for at least 30 minutes during my quite time (contest) Sometimes it” I can’t put my book down yet mom–lol who doesn’t love that– Snoopy is the best
My kids love reading and when their favorite characters are involved it really does make them learn easier!
My son is at a point where he reads every night before bed. I love giving him the classics that I had as a child. It’s fun for us to share the stories together.
What a wonderful collaboration! (The best exhibition I’ve ever seen, by the way, was “Schulz’s Beethoven: Schroeder’s Muse” at the San Jose Public Library several years ago. Jeannie’s commentary was a great part of that!)
Love Snoopy and the gang!
My kids love to read! And I agree, a library card is so important in encouraging young readers!
The Holidays are coming, which means Snoopy and the gang will bring”Good Will to all”.
My kids now share my love for peanuts 🙂